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NFL Reaffirms Commitment to Nigeria, Backs NFAF as National Teams Arrive in Kenya for World Championship Build-Up
Nigeria’s preparations for the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships have received another significant boost, with the National Football League (NFL) reaffirming its commitment to supporting the country’s flag football development through the Nigeria Federation of American Football (NFAF), while the Nigerian men’s and women’s national teams are already in Nairobi, Kenya, for their next phase of international preparations.
The two national teams arrived in Kenya this week ahead of the NFL Adult Flag Football Tournament, scheduled for July 9–10, where they will compete against some of Africa’s leading sides as part of their build-up to the World Championships in Düsseldorf, Germany, next month.
The tournament comes just weeks after Nigeria successfully hosted the Team Nigeria Showcase in Lagos, where the men’s and women’s national teams played friendly matches against All-Star selections as part of preparations for their historic World Championship debut.
The Kenya tournament is another major investment by the NFL in Nigeria’s development, with the league covering international travel, hotel accommodation and all on-ground tournament expenses for both the men’s and women’s national teams. Nigeria is responsible only for travel documentation, including passports, visas and required vaccinations.
The invitation was extended in an official letter signed by Osi Umenyiora on behalf of the National Football League, inviting Nigeria to participate with both male and female national teams in Nairobi.
Earlier this year, the NFL also invited the Nigeria Federation of American Football to participate in the NFL Flag Africa Championships in South Africa, another flagship development initiative aimed at expanding grassroots flag football across the continent. Under that programme, the NFL equally committed to funding flights, accommodation, meals and local logistics for Nigeria’s representatives.
Beyond providing financial support, the NFL has also made its position clear regarding the administration of the sport in Nigeria.
Responding to enquiries on future development projects, the NFL’s International Flag Football Development Manager, Afia Law, confirmed that all support for Nigeria would be channelled through the Nigeria Federation of American Football.
“We would need to support any projects via NFAF since they are the recognised governing body.
“I’m not sure where this sits with them at the moment, but it would come down to NFAF for any support for Nigeria.”
The statement represents another significant endorsement for the NFAF following the recent confirmation by the International Federation of American Football (IFAF) that it recognises the federation as the body charged by Nigeria’s National Sports Commission with overseeing the sport.
With the Nigerian men’s and women’s national teams now in Nairobi gaining valuable international match experience, attention is increasingly turning toward the 2026 IFAF Flag Football World Championships in Düsseldorf, where Nigeria will make history as Africa’s sole representative after winning both the men’s and women’s titles at the inaugural IFAF Africa Flag Championships in Egypt.
The Kenya friendlies are expected to provide Coaches Ephraim Fagha Faloughi and Anireju Oritsewehinmi Ayida with another opportunity to fine-tune their squads before the World Championships, which will also serve as the first Olympic qualifying event on the road to Los Angeles 2028.
For Nigerian flag football, the convergence of international recognition from IFAF and sustained investment from the NFL signals growing global confidence in the country’s programme. As the national teams continue their preparations in Kenya, stakeholders will be hoping the momentum translates into another historic performance when the worlds best converge in Germany next month.
Young Nigerian talents Raheem Salaudeen, Fawas Ayomide Adeleke and Obiora Jacob Iyida delivered impressive performances as FCV International Football Academy secured a commanding 4-1 away victory over Fox Academy of London.
The encounter provided another valuable opportunity for the Nigerian youngsters to showcase their abilities and gain experience in the competitive UK football environment.
Raheem Salaudeen was among the standout performers, finding the back of the net during an impressive first-half display. His goal was joined by efforts from Andrey and Iman as FCV International Football Academy established a strong advantage before the break.
The second half continued in the same direction, with fellow Nigerian youngster Fawas Ayomide Adeleke getting his name on the scoresheet to complete an impressive team performance.
Meanwhile, Obiora Jacob Iyida also caught the eye with his movement, attacking intent and willingness to take on defenders. Although he was unable to convert a couple of promising opportunities, his overall contribution showed plenty of encouragement.
Speaking after the match, Raheem Salaudeen reflected on the team’s performance:
“It was a good game for us and I’m pleased that we were able to get the win. Scoring is always a great feeling, but the most important thing is that we played together and showed what we can do. We still have a lot to improve, and we will keep working.”
Fawas Adeleke also expressed his determination to build on the experience:
“Getting on the scoresheet is a great boost, but I know this is only one step. Playing here is helping us understand the demands of football in the UK, and I want to keep learning, improving and becoming a better player.”
For Obiora, the focus remains on turning his promising performances into goals and greater contributions in future matches.
The victory represents another important development opportunity for the three Nigerian youngsters, who continue to gain exposure, confidence and competitive experience while pursuing their football ambitions abroad.
From Nigeria to the UK, Raheem, Fawas and Obiora are continuing to make their presence felt—and their journey is one Nigerian football fans will be watching closely.
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